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A newly proposed mandate for World Cup fans journeying to the United States to disclose their online profile details has been branded "deeply troubling."

Mandatory Disclosure for ESTA Applicants

Under the plan, visitors from 42 countries—such as the UK—who use the visa waiver program would be required to provide information about social media accounts they have maintained in the last five-year period. Until now, submitting this information was optional.

"These proposed measures are profoundly unacceptable," said Ronan Evain, head of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right to privacy are fundamental rights. No supporter surrenders those rights just because they cross a border."

He continued, "This policy introduces a climate of fear of surveillance that directly contradicts the inclusive atmosphere the tournament is meant to embody and it must be rescinded immediately."

Roots in an Previous Executive Order

The proposal follows an presidential directive issued by former President Trump in January that aims "to guarantee that all aliens wishing to enter the US are thoroughly checked to the maximum degree feasible."

Government Statement and Justification

A representative for the border agency offered context on the issue. "This is not a change on this subject for those coming to the United States," the spokesperson stated. "This is not a final rule, it is simply the first step in starting a discussion to have additional measures to protect the American people safe."

The spokesperson further noted, "We are continuously evaluating how we screen those entering the country, particularly after the terrorist attack in the capital. The measure is in line with the January 2025 Executive Order to thoroughly check those who are coming into this country using the visa waiver system by enabling CBP to collect additional information from foreign nationals using the ESTA program."